Recently appointed Phoenix Suns head coach Monty Williams appears to be pumped about his new job. The former New Orleans Pelicans head honcho recently spoke about one of his new team's young stars, Deandre Ayton, and described how impressed he has been with the 20-year-old after the two recently touched base:
Monty Williams said he’s been communicating with Deandre Ayton as recently as yesterday. Described him as a “beautiful canvas” he doesn’t want to mess up. He’s already worked out with Ayton and was “blown away” at his footwork and ability to learn fast. More on @AZSports tonight.
— Kellan Olson (@KellanOlson) June 6, 2019
Williams had years of experience coaching one of the league's top big men in Anthony Davis during their three years together in New Orleans between 2013 and 2015. Williams spent last season as an assistant coach to Brett Brown of the Philadelphia 76ers, so he was also able to work with Joel Embiid, another elite big man. This being the case, Williams should be able to transition well in terms of knowing how to properly deal with Ayton and his tremendous potential.
For his part, Ayton had a very impressive rookie campaign as the first overall pick, averaging 16.3 points (on 58.5 percent shooting), 10.3 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.9 blocks, and just 1.8 turnovers in 30.7 minutes per contest. Unfortunately — or perhaps a bit of a blessing in disguise, depending on where you're sitting — his outstanding play was overshadowed by Dallas Mavericks Rookie of the Year frontrunner Luka Doncic as well as Atlanta Hawks rookie sensation Trae Young.
Nonetheless, Ayton is primed for a huge sophomore season, and Williams appears to be in an excellent position to allow the former Arizona standout every chance to eventually be able to tap into his full potential.
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